Hemet, CA, California

Smoking tolerance level [1= very illegal 5=virtually legal]: 3

Legislation: Proposition 215 in California since July 19, 2002, also known as the Compassionate Use Act of 1995, legalizes medical Marijuana use: “The possession and cultivation of marijuana is no more criminal — so long as (the law’s) conditions are satisfied — than the possession and acquisition of any prescription drug with a physician’s prescription.” CA Chief Justice Ronald George.

Possession of 28.5 grams or less of marijuana is not an arrestable offense. As long as the offender can provide sufficient identification and promises to appear in court, the officer will not arrest the offender. Upon conviction of the misdemeanor charge the offender is subject to a fine of $100. Possession of greater than 28.5 grams is punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $500.

The State of California has made it legal to carry up to an ounce on your person IF you have received a “prescription” from a doctor. This “prescription” allows you to get a “Cannabis card” which you can use to purchase marijuana from “Cannabis Clubs” (a physical establishment you can buy marijuana from with a card). Also, possesion of marijuana in the State of California is only a misdemeanor offense and is removed from your record after only 2 years (misdemeanor only applies if there is no intent to sell).

Law enforcement: Big area, few cops. While it is illegal, and a lot of people have been busted with herb, there is always a risk being caught by the cops. Sometimes they just take the weed and break your piece, but people are known to be fined, or taken home to their parents if they are minors.